The Scituate Conservation Commission addressed a packed agenda during its October 6 session, focusing heavily on large-scale town revetment projects and the significant redevelopment of the South River Marina. Sean McCarthy, representing the Scituate Engineering Department, opened the discussion on the First Cliff revetment rehabilitation, noting that the project has been delayed by multiple federally declared disasters. McCarthy explained that it's been a recordkeeping nightmare if I can say the least, as the town has had to identify which specific stones were damaged by which specific storms for FEMA reimbursement. Carrie Marshall of FO Engineering detailed the technical aspects, stating that the proposed work includes an 18-inch layer of compatible cobble material below a topping layer of angular stone to support construction equipment before being left as nourishment. However, the project faced resistance regarding a proposed access point near Crow Point. Attorney Bill Orinberger, representing the Harold family, argued that the plans would be disruptive to recent improvements on their property, stating that it would require the demolition of all the new improvements including a newly approved pier and cottage. Motion Made by Penny Scott-Pipes to continue to October 20th, the first cliff revetment. Vote Passed 6-0

The Commission also reviewed similar rehabilitation efforts for Second Cliff and Minet Beach. Regarding Second Cliff, resident Phil Strazula expressed that he was a little disappointed that it didn't extend around the rest of Second Cliff, though town officials explained the limits were based strictly on FEMA project worksheets. For Minet Beach, the Commission discussed the use of an "infield" area for construction staging to minimize impacts on rocky intertidal shores. Panel member Roger noted the importance of public access during these large projects, stating, I do know that those type of access points are very important as of our community and I just want to make sure we're not limiting them. Meanwhile, Robbie reviewed the plans for Second Cliff and simply noted, Good looking project. I have nothing. Motion Made by Penny Scott-Pipes to close and issue orders for the second cliff revetments. Vote Passed 6-0 and Motion Made by Penny Scott-Pipes to close for the minet beach revetment. Vote Passed 6-0

A major portion of the evening was dedicated to the proposed redevelopment at 21 Central Avenue and 7 Marshfield Avenue, involving 10 new townhouses and a modern marine service building. Attorney Adam Brodsky argued that the site’s status as a "coastal dune" was purely a mapping formality, asserting that there is no coastal dune on the property. This site is almost entirely paved or covered with buildings. Geologist Stan Humphre supported this, adding that the existing topography will be maintained basically flat. However, Commission member Eric raised concerns regarding the presumption of significance for dunes, stating, it is the responsibility of this commission to ensure that the work being proposed is done safely for both the environment as well as the human inhabitants. Brendan Collins questioned the parking layout within the proposed marine building, noting, the fact that it could just go away once this is all done and just become a parking garage is I feel a valid concern. Motion Made by Penny Scott-Pipes to continue 21 Central Avenue until November 5th. Vote Passed 6-0

The meeting concluded with several residential septic and reconstruction filings. Jed Hannon presented a "raise and rebuild" project at 33 10th Avenue, explaining that the intent, as I mentioned, is to raise and rebuild on wood pilings well above the FEMA flood zone. The Commission debated the use of a concrete slab versus gravel under the home, with Penny Scott-Pipes remarking, I'm not crazy at all with skirting on this project at all. For smaller septic repairs on Conquered Street and Buttonwood Lane, the Commission was generally supportive. Referring to a septic upgrade on Conquered Street, Penny Scott-Pipes stated, I love an updated septic. All good. Chairman Frank Snow managed the flow of the marathon meeting, telling the members, just so all of you know, the reason you get called out that way is because that's the list that Jen gave me for the roll call. The meeting was adjourned at 9:15 PM.